A handful: Nemani Nadolo in action for the Crusaders in the Super Rugby competition. Photo: Getty Images

The 26-year-old is a former Australian under-20 representative and his pace and power on the wing has fortified the Crusaders' back division this Super Rugby season.

The Flying Fijians were 7-5 behind at halftime but dominated the second period to clinch the home win at the ANZ National Stadium.

Italy were awarded a 10th-minute penalty try, given for repeated collapsing of the Fiji scrum, and Luciano Orquera booted the conversion.

Nadolo's try cut into that lead but Jonetani Ralulu failed to add the extras and then missed a penalty, as Fiji were held at bay until the interval.

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Dominiko Waqaniburotu put Fiji ahead for the first time when a flowing move was finished off by the back-row forward, and Nadolo took over kicking responsibilities, nudging Fiji 12-7 ahead early in the second half.

Two penalties from Nadolo stretched the lead, yet a second Italian penalty try, again converted by Orquera, drew the teams closer once more.

Napolioni Nalaga killed off the Italians though with the home side's third try two minutes from the end.